COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Egypt: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy is a major problem. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted on a sample of the Egyptian population using an online survey distributed through social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn. The questionnaire was composed of five parts: part I describing the research questionnaire and its aim, part II assessing the demographic data, part III assessing knowledge and attitude towards COVID-19 infection, and part IV and V evaluating knowledge regarding COVID-19 vaccines, factors affecting vaccine acceptance and participants’ attitude toward vaccination. Regression models were used to assess factors associated with vaccine acceptability.

Results: A total of 24376 responses were included in the statistical analysis. Females represented more than two-thirds of the study sample (70.5%,) and 18-24 years was the most commonly reported age group. Around one-third of the sample were healthcare professionals (HCPs). Only 14.3% of the participants received or registered to receive the vaccine, while 47% refused to be vaccinated. Regression analysis revealed that male gender, secondary education, older age, married or divorced status, presence of comorbidities, and higher level of knowledge regarding the vaccine were significantly associated with high vaccine acceptance. The most important vaccine attributes influencing vaccine selection in the current work were efficacy and safety.

Conclusions: Vaccine hesitancy is currently a major challenge. Governments should design educational campaigns that provide trusted data related to vaccine efficacy and safety to encourage vaccination and enhance awareness.